The Cold Door Hero

Summary

On his first day as Kaifeng Prefect, Li Yan Qing asserted his authority by converting his personal guards into soldiers of the Kaifeng Prefecture Army, effectively allowing them to operate with official legitimacy. Despite Deputy Yamen Zhao Hui's displeasure and inability to act against him due to his own vulnerabilities, Li Yan Qing began patrolling the city to inspect both public safety and defenses. He found the city walls impressive but noted the lack of training and experience among the troops stationed there, raising concerns about their readiness against potential Jurchen attacks. Li Gang, a civil official, explained the difficulties faced by the Crown Prince in securing military authority and the limitations on troop effectiveness. Li Yan Qing expressed frustration over the lack of preparations and resources, revealing that much of the military funding had been misappropriated for extravagant palace constructions. Meanwhile, Zhao Hui reported Li Yan Qing's assertive actions to Wang Fu, who was infuriated by Li's disregard for authority and ordered to see how far Li could enforce his commands against the counties.

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